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Unfair and aggressive trading practices to be outlawed

21 March 2008

A crackdown on aggressive selling will for the first time prohibit businesses from adopting ‘unfair trading practices’ and see more than 30 specific types of business methods blacklisted in a move to protect consumers.

All traders – from High Street retailers to second-hand car dealers – will be affected by new laws coming into force on 26 May.

National law firm Shoosmiths has welcomed the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008.

Among the 31 practices they will outlaw are:

Shoosmiths associate and commercial law specialist Robin Webb warned that traders caught under the new laws could be fined up to £5,000, with directors and managers facing up to two years’ imprisonment.

He said: “The Regulations are driven by a desire to clamp down on unfair sales and marketing practices, put a stop to aggressive selling techniques and prevent traders misinforming and misleading consumers about products and services.

“Most people will have experienced the never-ending closing down sale, which often lasts for months, during which time new stock appears regularly. It’s a classic example of traders pressuring consumers into buying, and is something this legislation is designed to stop.

“From 26 May consumers must be provided with all necessary information to enable them to make considered purchasing decisions.”

And Webb advised all consumer-facing businesses to review their practices thoroughly to ensure they comply with the legislation.

Enforcement will lie with the Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR), and local trading standards officers.

For further information please contact:
Name: Alastair Gray
Phone: 08700 864096
Email: alastair.gray@shoosmiths.co.uk

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